Lattice Reinforced Regolith Concrete for Lunar Infrastructure

Development of permanent bases on the Moon and Mars will require autonomous construction techniques and in-situ resource utilization. The goal of this project is to demonstrate that discrete lattice structures (robotically assembled) can provide reinforcement to a variety of possible regolith concrete composites required for stronger and more versatile structures. Sustained lunar (or Martian) operations will require durable infrastructure: landing pads, habitats, radiation and debris shields, and other structures for exploration and resource extraction. However, launching the required mass for such infrastructure is infeasible. In-situ resource utilization will be required. Lunar regolith is a natural target for production of regolith concrete and cementing agents, but like terrestrial concrete, it is expected to require reinforcement due to poor tensile and flexural strength. Fabrication of formwork and reinforcement for terrestrial concrete is a labor-intensive process and would introduce further risks to lunar construction. Development of lunar infrastructure will require autonomous fabrication of reinforcement and regolith concrete composites.

Autonomously-assembled lattice reinforcement of regolith concrete will enable strong lunar infrastructure. Assembled lattices and their robotic assembly have been studied, as have regolith-based concretes. Concretes reinforced with 3D lattice have yet to be characterized. This can also complement current regolith extrusion/ contour forming efforts at the agency.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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